International Women’s Day in the BLBR

On this International Women’s Day we celebrate Dr. Teresa MacNeil, the inaugural chairperson of the Bras d’Or Lake Biosphere Reserve Association and one of its most avid champions. Teresa was born and raised in Johnstown, Nova Scotia. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from St. Francis Xavier University and Master’s and PhD degrees in educational policy studies from the University of Wisconsin. Dr. MacNeil was a professor and founder of the Master of Adult Education program at St. Francis University. Although retired since 1996, Dr. MacNeil remains an ardent promoter of lifelong learning.

Dr. MacNeil is a highly respected community organizer. Among her many leadership roles, she chaired Cape Breton Development Corporation and Sydney Steel. She holds honorary degrees from the Open University of British Columbia, St. Francis Xavier University and Cape Breton University. Her outstanding accomplishments led to her being named a member of the Order of Canada in 2004. She remains a valuable contributor to the many programs of the Bras d’Or Lake Biosphere Reserve Association. Thank you, Teresa!